Polished Concrete vs Epoxy Floor Coatings

Considering a concrete floor system that is right for your facility and your budget? In the past, traditionally, epoxy or other painted coating, was installed. But today, polished concrete is growing in popularity in not only retail and modern office spaces, but warehouses and distribution centers are seeing the benefits of this cost-effective and durable flooring solution. You can read more about our polished concrete services here.

Benefits of Polished Concrete vs Epoxy on Concrete Floors

A transformation of epoxy floors to polished concrete.

When comparing the 2 concrete flooring systems here are the top 5 concerns most have regarding the final decision, as you can see polished concrete outperforms epoxy on 4 out of 5 criteria below. Although, polished concrete is not suitable for every condition (see #5 for acid and chemical resistance), it is perfectly suitable for almost every concrete floor today from decorative to industrial!

Life Cycle – How long will your investment last?

Polished Concrete – There are many different levels of polished concrete. Although they are different sheens (low-high) they are, more importantly, different refinements. These refinements are what make the floor last longer. A well-refined polished concrete floor can last 10 years or longer. However, when it is time for refurbishment, it only costs a fraction of the initial installation.

Epoxy – Costly nearly double what a polished concrete floor cost, a high quality epoxy will last 3-5 years (depending on the volume and type of traffic). When it is time for refurbishment, expect to pay more than initial installation cost in order to cover the removal of the first coating.

Cleanability – Is it easy to maintain?

Polished Concrete is maintained with water only. There are additional additives that can be added to an autoscrubber to maintain its luster over time, but are not necessary. Autoscrubbing daily (depending on traffic) is a good idea.

Epoxy can be maintained with water as well, however, detergents may be required to remove build-up. Once epoxy starts to peel, flake, or chip maintenance will become increasingly more difficult.

Aesthetics – Will it look good for my customers and employees?

Polished concrete is an attractive flooring option. If properly maintained it stays clean and presentable.

Epoxy flooring needs regular maintenance as well, however, once it starts to peel, flake, or chip it becomes an eyesore.

Durability – Will it hold up under forklifts or heavy machinery?

Polished concrete is more durable to heavy machinery and forklifts than epoxy because there is nothing to wear off the surface.

Acid or Chemical Resistance – Can it tolerate acids or chemicals?

Polished concrete is NOT acid and chemical resistant. Heavy acids and chemicals can etch the surface, making it dull and difficult to maintain. If the facility requires an acid-resistant flooring a coating is necessary.